Caring Ministry Levels

Coordinator of Congregational Life This staff member assists the minister, staff and committees in providing needed contact and care for members and assists in the coordination of the ongoing engagement of visitors, friends, and members of the church in a welcoming and hospitable manner. This staff member is available to offer a listening, caring presence to congregants in time of crisis such as illness, hospitalization, job loss, grief.

Pastoral Care Consultants

Pastoral Care Consultants are a consultation group who assist the Minister and Coordinator of Congregational Life in determining how best to support congregants with special needs. Consultants have professional training in confidentiality issues and listening skills.  They possess the ability to work with each other and the Minister and Coordinator of Congregational Life to deliver effective care, nurturing, acceptance, and comfort to congregants.

Caring Congregation

Monthly volunteers coordinate care for members who experience loss, medical problems, or have other needs and also acknowledge special events in the livee of members such as births and marriages. Monthly coordinators enlist the help of congregation members who have expressed interest in providing assistance to others. Whether in times of need or times of joy, the Caring Committee supports others by:

• sending friendly notes and cards
• e-mailing or phoning
• helping with transportation
• supplying emergency meals
• visiting homes or hospitals

How You Can Become Involved?

Just ask! This committee would be delighted to add your name to the list. Of course you won't be expected to answer every call for help, but if you're willing to send one friendly note, make one phone call, or visit one hospital patient, give one ride to church during the year, you're in!

Caring Church Friends

The Caring Church Friends program is a means for congregants to receive more long-term assistance and comfort in times of illness, family crisis or grief. Caring Church Friends develop relationships ranging from one or two phone conversations to regularly scheduled visits over many months. Caring Church Friends are trained church congregants who make a long-term commitment of time and energy to walk with congregants through tough times. They offer careful listening, emotional support and practical information about community services that may be appropriate for special needs.

They meet on a regular basis with the Coordinator of Congregational Life to discuss the needs of the congregation, and plan how to meet those needs. At these meetings Caring Church Friends will receive training and education about confidentiality, listening skills, grief, addictions, community resources, and more.